What natural foods and superfoods are good for dogs?
You have probably heard of the debate about natural foods and superfoods online. Not all foods are created equal, natural foods are those that do not contain preservatives or artificial ingredients, and superfoods are those that are full of nutrients and are rich in antioxidants.
These natural foods have miraculous health benefits for dogs. Some of these fruits and vegetables have unique benefits and are very affordable. Here we will discuss which natural foods and superfoods are good for dogs and what their benefits are.
What natural foods and superfoods are good for dogs?
Kale
Kale is the trendiest green vegetable and one of the nutrient-dense foods. Surprisingly, it is good for dogs due to their nutrient-dense properties. A single cup of raw cabbage contains almost 6-7 grams of carbohydrates and 3-4 grams of protein.
Kale helps improve the cardiovascular health of dogs by reducing the level of cholesterol in the body. The high cholesterol level causes many diseases in dogs. Kale is packed with fiber and antioxidants that are necessary to fight against liver diseases.
Pears
Pears are a delight for your dogs. They are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, fiber, and low in calories. The pear seed contains some traces of cyanides, therefore, during feeding; the pear seeds must be removed. Pears also have anti-cancer benefits when served in adequate amounts.
Bananas
Banana is the favorite food of athletes, the same goes for athletic and energetic dogs. When dogs need energy, a banana can provide all the energy for athletic work. Banana is a great source of electrolytes, amino acids, vitamin B6, vitamin C, manganese, copper, and biotin.
Banana promotes bone growth in pups. Always make sure to feed the banana after peeling it because banana peels are difficult to digest and can cause intestinal blockage in dogs.
Blueberries
Blueberries are a low-calorie diet for dogs. They are filled to the brim with fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants. Blueberries can increase dogs’ immunity and promote overall dog health.
Blueberries can help the dog fight against cancer and can increase the dog’s ability to remember things in old age.
Carrots
Large carrots are used as edible chewable dog toys. Chewing on a carrot can also improve dogs’ dental health. Carrots are an excellent source of potassium, vitamin A, and fiber. Carrots are useful for improving vision in dogs.
Fish
Fish is an excellent source of protein and is currently found in commercial dog food to meet the protein requirements of dogs. Fish meat is a high source of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids that is absent in most dog foods.
Fish can decrease inflammation in the dog’s body and the best part is that you can cook the fish and save leftovers for yourself.
Kelp
Kelp is a rich source of calcium, vitamins, sodium, folic acid, and iodine. These nutrients are mainly lacking in dog pellet food. The main benefits of seaweed are that they are excellent for skin allergies and help repair dog tissues.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin is nutrient-dense and an important part of the homemade dog diet. Pumpkin aids digestion and also helps regulate bowel movement in dogs. Pumpkin increases immunity and helps prevent urinary inconsistency.
When buying canned food for your dog, read the label carefully, a pure pumpkin on the ingredient list can be really good for your dog.
Turmeric
Turmeric is good not only for human health but also for dog health. Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory and helps to overcome joint weakness and stiffness.
Turmeric is very beneficial in older dogs because it helps fight arthritis. Turmeric improves the range of emotions and helps in the fight against cancer.
Honey
Honey can be a sweet treat for sweet dogs. As you know, dogs have a hard time digesting artificial sugar, so honey, a natural sweetener, can be a good option for feeding dogs.
Honey can reduce inflammation and also has antifungal and antimicrobial properties. Some dogs are sensitive to pollens; their tolerance can be increased by feeding them a small amount of honey.
Coconut oil
This superfood is used everywhere these days and, most importantly, it can be used in the dog’s diet. Coconut has many health benefits for dogs, it improve the coat of the skin, aids in digestion, and relieves allergic reactions.
Coconut oil can balance the thyroid and help the overweight dog lose weight. Coconut oil is high in calories, so consult your vet about the feeding dosage.
Apples
You must have heard the famous saying that an apple a day keeps the doctor away. The same can happen with dogs since dogs cannot clean their teeth. Apple slices can help them clean their teeth.
Apples are natural antioxidants and are packed with fiber. The only problem with feeding apples is their seeds. They can cause choking and also contain a toxic cyanide compound.
Antioxidant-rich foods for dogs
Antioxidants are the compound that neutralizes reactive oxygen-carrying molecules. When antioxidants are fed to the dog, they protect the dog’s body from damage caused by free radicals. Some important foods that have antioxidant properties are.
Beans
Beans are the best source of antioxidants in dogs. The common beans that can be fed to dogs are Pinto, red kidney, and black beans. 100 grams of beans can contain up to 2 mmol of antioxidants.
Cranberries
Cranberries are a great source of fiber and vitamin C, and their antioxidant properties can beat any other fruit or vegetable like spinach, broccoli, apples, raspberries, and cherries.
Eggshell membranes
Surprisingly, the eggshell membrane, which is the thin layer between the egg white and the shell, is the particular source of antioxidants in dogs.
The eggshell membrane is also safe for dogs and also contains various compounds that aid in the problem of joint pain.
Broccoli
Broccoli contains two powerful antioxidants, lutein, and sulforaphane. Some additional nutrients like phosphorous, magnesium, zinc, and iron are also present in broccoli. Recent studies show that purple broccoli contains a higher amount of antioxidants than green broccoli.
A small amount of Broccoli in your dog diet can increase the food taste and provide antioxidant-rich food to the dog.
